Nuclear Reactions and Processes

Front

What is nuclear radiation?

Back

Nuclear radiation is the emission of particles or electromagnetic waves from the nucleus of an atom as it undergoes radioactive decay.

Front

What are the three main types of nuclear radiation?

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The three main types of nuclear radiation are alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, making it identical to a helium nucleus.

Front

What is a beta particle?

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A beta particle is a high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during radioactive decay.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation of high frequency and energy, emitted from the nucleus during radioactive decay.

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy.

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What is nuclear fusion?

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Nuclear fusion is the process of combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

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What is half-life?

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Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

Front

What makes an atom radioactive?

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An atom is radioactive if it has an unstable nucleus that can undergo radioactive decay.

Front

What is a neutron?

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A neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom, with no electric charge and a mass slightly greater than that of a proton.